USM students on probation after blackface incident

HATTIESBURG, Miss. 
A sorority at the University of Southern Mississippi has placed six of its members on probation for dressing in blackface to depict the Huxtable family from "The Cosby Show" and attending a 1980s-themed costume party last week off campus.

The university and the sorority confirmed the incident Monday in statements released via the university. The students, all members of Phi Mu sorority, have not been publicly identified.

Joe Paul, vice president of student affairs, says the executive officers of Phi Mu and the women involved met on Sunday with a group of African-American student leaders at the university.

Phi Mu National President Kris Bridges says the matter is being investigated and more disciplinary action could follow. She says the local chapter will sponsor a campus-wide program on diversity appreciation.